Leinster reportedly make offer for star Wallabies tighthead prop

With the future of the Melbourne Rebels in doubt, Leinster have reportedly offer a deal to one of the club's stars.

Taniela Tupou of Australia makes a break during a 2023 Rugby World Cup game against Georgia. Picture: ©INPHO/Dave Winter

Leinster have reportedly tabled an offer for Australian prop Taniela Tupou.

If signed, the 27-year-old tighthead would be a replacement for the departing Michael Ala'alatoa. The Samoan international will join Clermont at the end of the season after three years at Leinster.

Johnny Sexton of Ireland is tackled by Taniela Tupou of Australia during a 2018 Test match in Brisbane, Australia. Picture: Moran/Sportsfile

Tupou currently plays for the Melbourne Rebels where he is contracted until 2025 on a $1.2 million a year deal. However, the future of the Melbourne side is uncertain with the Revels severely in debt. 

The club entered voluntary administration before the beginning of the Super Rugby season in late February. Rugby Australia committed to ensuring the Rebels would play this season but made no guarantees beyond that. If the club folded, Tupou could move aboard.

According to Australia outlet Code Sports, Leinster have tabled a deal worth $950,000 (approximately €570,000) a year for Tupou.

The powerful 135kg prop made his Wallabies debut in 2017 three years after he became an internet sensation for scoring a hat-trick of tries in a New Zealand schools game. A battle for the Tongan Thor's international future followed with Australian eventually winning.

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen and Michael Ala'alatoa. Picture: ©INPHO/Tom Maher

New Australia head coach Joe Schmidt said recently that whether those who are playing aboard will be eligible for the Wallabies is "a difficult one to answer at the moment".

“What I would say is that players who are playing in Australia will be a priority for us," Schmidt continued.

"If that is supplemented by a few players playing overseas, then that may well be the case.

“I haven’t even asked around clarity at this stage.

“Yes, I am tracking the players who are playing overseas, particularly the ones who were at the World Cup, but my fullest focus is on the guys who are playing week to week in the Super teams here in Australia.”